Unclear if idea will be expanded to the Sedona/Verde Valley side of Mingus Mountain
The Yavapai College Student Government Association (SGA) opened a free professional clothing shop in April for students on the Prescott Campus. According to the College’s press release, President Dr. Lisa Rhine was the catalyst for the business-clothing shop, “planting the seed” in mentoring meetings with SGA leaders who noted the difficulty some students face affording professional attire for job interviews and other occasions.
“Dr. Rhine’s idea was not just about clothes, it was about confidence, about breaking barriers and about empowering students to present their best selves in a professional setting,” said Jamie Oltersdorf, former SGA President, during the grand-opening event. “The Student Government Association took this idea to heart. We saw the potential, the need, the difference it could make. What started as a small collection of business attire has grown into Ruff’s Closet – a testament to what we can achieve when we come together for a common cause.”
Much of the initial clothing in was donated by Community College faculty and staff, “a team of student volunteers ushered the project, securing college leadership support and donations of shelving, racks, decorations, signage and other items needed to make the apparel shop appealing and inviting. A number of area businesses, including JC Penney, generously donated supplies to the closet.”
The shop is open from noon to 7 p.m. weekdays for student shoppers and to take donations of new, gently used and clean business clothing and shoes from everyone. It is located in Room 125A in Building 3 on the Prescott Campus.
There was no indication one way or the other in the press release about possible expansion of the project to the Verde Campus or the Sedona Center.